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Common uses
This medicine is an
hmg-coa reductase inhibitor (also known as a "statin") used to lower
cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. It may also be
used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before using
Some medicines or
medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your
doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter
medicine that you are taking. Do not take this medicine if you are
also taking fibrates such as gemfibrozil, clofibrate, or fenofibrate;
or high-dose niacin (1 gram or more per day).
Additional monitoring
of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking
cyclosporine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical
conditions, muscle problems, alcohol use, allergies (especially to
other "statins"), pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Use of this medicine
is not recommended if you have a history of liver conditions or
abnormal liver function test results. Certain medical conditions,
including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures;
or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may increase
your risk for side effects that can result in kidney problems while
taking this medicine. Contact your doctor if you develop one of these
conditions. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any
questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
Directions
Follow the directions
for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be
taken on an empty stomach or with food. Try to take this medicine at
the same time each day. Store this medicine at room temperature at 77
degrees f (25 degrees c), away from heat, moisture, and light. Brief
storage between 59 and 86 degrees f (15 and 30 degrees c) is
permitted. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as
possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed
dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses
at once.
Cautions
Follow the dietary
plan provided by your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory
appointments while you are using this medicine. Before having any
kind of surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or
over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: do
not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you
could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. This medicine is
excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this
medicine.
Possible side
effects
Side effects that may
occur while taking this medicine include dizziness or flu-like
symptoms. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience muscle
pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if associated with fever
and a general feeling of discomfort; rash; yellow skin or eyes;
unusual bleeding or bruising; or sore throat.
Contact your doctor
immediately if you experience the following side effects or symptoms
of toxicity: swelling of hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue;
difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness. If you notice
other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or
pharmacist.
If you take
too much
If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room
immediately.
Additional
information
For best results, this
medicine should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat
diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the
dietary plan provided by your doctor. Consult with your doctor.
Do not share this
medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this
medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the
reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended
period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out. |